Ideation & Concepts Development
Research: Started with figuring out rough dimensions for the length and thickness for main components on the replica. Using a reference image and in game simulation, an appropriate material and color was selected for the design. As the model would be printed in sections, it was decided that an aluminum tube would run through the model to hold everything together and for ease of precision in the assembling process.
Reference image:
Design Process
Utilizing the reference image, only one half of the replica needed to be designed in detail, then utilizing mirror functions in Onshape (CAD) the other half could be created and booleaned together. Initially rough shapes were designed to create the general shape, and then finer detailing was done to create a more final look. All of the pieces were designed around the aluminum tubing that would be holding it together in the internal of the replica. The barrel, scope, and shoulder piece, and magazine are modular for easy transport and future customization.
Prototyping & Testing
To ensure that the aluminum tubing would fit perfectly with the 3D printed parts, cross sectional 3D prints of the barrel were conducted to ensure a snug fit. Multiple iterations were also conducted on specific parts of the CAD model to replicate the accuracy reference image and what the user sees in game. For example the bolt was redesigned several times with different CAD tools.
Final Product
CAD Model:
CAD Model Link: Valorant Operator Replica
Assembly Images and Videos:
Conclusions
Project Summary: The Valorant Operator Replica was a huge success as all tolerances fit and it was easily assembled. The modular system was perfect for transporting. The aluminum tubing added a weight that made the replica feel more realistic. The magnet holding the magazine worked very well and created the same type of snap that the user sees in the Valorant video game.
Future Improvements: Future versions will have a moving bolt, allowing the user to have more of a realistic feel, and connecting them to the video game. The magazine will also be longer, as this part was an afterthought and was created smaller than it should have been.